Greece has a long tradition in acoustics. Already in the ancient era, the necessity for social gathering and cultural performance in the open air with optimum hearing and appreciation conditions, led the engineers of that time, to study and design theaters, conservatories and other public gathering places with excellent acoustic characteristics. The acoustics of ancient theatres and conservatories (odeia) remain notorious until today.

The tradition of the Greeks in acoustics continued in the 20th century, assisted by the introduction of acoustic education as a special field in Greek Universities. Thus, a new generation of acousticians has been created with interests in various areas of acoustics. Along with their colleagues who received their education abroad, consist now the society of Greek acousticians who have considerable contribution in both the international basic and applied research on acoustics as well as in the design of buildings characterized by high standard acoustics and in noise-control applications.

The talk will summarize the evolution and achievements of acoustics in Greece during the previous century and in the beginning of the 2000’s. The history of the found of the Hellenic Institute of Acoustics and its role in both Greek and international acoustic affairs will also be presented.